Things To Do
in Monkey Bay
Monkey Bay is a small town located on the southern shores of Lake Malawi in Malawi. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.
The town also offers a relaxed atmosphere with local markets, restaurants, and accommodations for travelers.
- "Muli bwanji" - How are you?
- "Zikomo" - Thank you
- "Tionana" - See you later
- "Ndikufuna kukhulukura" - I want to help
- "Ndi bwino" - I am fine
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast by the lake while enjoying the stunning views. Take a short walk along the beach to bask in the morning sun.
Visit the local markets to buy crafts and souvenirs made by the community. Spend the rest of the afternoon lounging at your accommodation or swimming in the lake.
Enjoy a traditional Malawian dinner at a local restaurant. Finish your day by watching the sunset over Lake Malawi, a truly picturesque experience.
Enjoy breakfast before heading to nearby Liwonde National Park for a wildlife safari. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, hippos, and a variety of birds.
Continue your adventure with a guided boat tour on the Shire River. Encounter more wildlife and enjoy the unique scenery around the park.
Return to Monkey Bay for dinner at your accommodation. Reflect on the day's excitement while resting under the stars by the lake.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including stunning beaches and clear waters of Lake Malawi.
- Rich biodiversity with opportunities for wildlife and bird watching.
- Cultural experiences with local communities and traditional crafts.
- Great for water activities like snorkeling, diving, and fishing.
- Less touristy than other destinations, offering a more tranquil environment.
- Limited infrastructure and services compared to more developed tourist areas.
- Potential safety concerns, including petty crime.
- Health risks such as malaria, requiring caution and preventive measures.
- Access to amenities like restaurants and shops may be limited.
- Seasonal weather can affect travel plans and activities.
Best Activities in Monkey Bay
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant underwater life of Lake Malawi by snorkeling, especially around the nearby coves and islands.
Take scenic hikes in the surrounding hills and mountains, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the landscape.
Visit the nearby reserves to observe a variety of bird species native to the region, including many migratory birds.
Rent a kayak to paddle along the calm waters of Lake Malawi, allowing for a peaceful exploration of the shoreline.
Engage in local fishing activities in Lake Malawi, either from a boat or from the shore, experiencing traditional fishing methods.
Participate in cultural tours to visit local villages, learn about the Malawian culture, and interact with the community.
Set up a camping site near the lakeshore for a night under the stars, enjoying the sounds of nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Monkey Bay with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Monkey Bay
Visit one of these nice places.
A small island in Lake Malawi, Thumbi Island offers stunning views of the surrounding waters and is perfect for capturing picturesque sunsets and wildlife photography.
Known for its breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding hills, Cape Maclear is a popular spot for photographers looking to capture the beauty of Malawi's coastline.
This lookout point provides panoramic views of Monkey Bay and Lake Malawi, making it an ideal location for landscape photography and stunning sunrise photos.
These unique rock formations offer dramatic backdrops for photography, especially with the contrast of the blue lake waters and lush greenery.
With its clear waters and rich biodiversity, Lizard Island is perfect for underwater photography and scenic lake views, ideal for capturing the vibrant marine life.
Food in Monkey Bay
Monkey Bay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local fish from Lake Malawi, often flame-grilled and served with a side of nsima (maize porridge) or rice.
Must-Try!
A traditional Malawian dish made with dried fish, groundnut flour, tomatoes, and local greens, providing a flavorful and nutritious meal.
A savory pancake-like dish made from mashed bananas mixed with cassava flour and served with a variety of accompaniments, offering a taste of authentic Malawian flavors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Monkey Bay better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling Monkey Bay Market is a great place to explore local ingredients, fresh produce, and interact with the vibrant food culture of the region. Visitors can sample street food like grilled corn on the cob, skewered meats, and flavorful samosas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Monkey Bay, it is customary to greet everyone you meet, even strangers. A simple 'Hello' or 'How are you?' in Chichewa (the local language) can go a long way. If you know the person's name, use it to show respect.
While casual clothing is acceptable, it's important to dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Women should wear dresses or skirts that cover the knees, and men should avoid shorts in public settings to show respect for local customs.
Elders are highly respected in Malawian culture. Always use polite language when addressing them, and stand up when they enter a room. It’s also customary to wait for elders to sit down before taking a seat yourself.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Monkey Bay with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Monkey Bay
Ensure a smooth experience
In Monkey Bay, Malawi, tipping is not a widespread practice, but it is appreciated in the hospitality sector. Tourists may leave small tips for hotel staff, restaurant servers, and tour guides as a gesture of gratitude for good service. Typically, tips range from 5-10% of the total bill.
Payment practices in Monkey Bay generally involve cash transactions, with the Malawian Kwacha (MWK) being the primary currency. Many local businesses, markets, and street vendors do not accept cards, so it is advisable for visitors to carry enough cash. Some larger establishments may accept mobile payment methods, but this is less common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit Monkey Bay due to lower humidity and minimal rainfall. Expect pleasant temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities like boat trips, fishing, and exploring nearby national parks such as Liwonde. This period is perfect for wildlife sightings as animals are more active and visible.
During the wet season, expect higher humidity and frequent rain showers. The landscape becomes lush and vibrant, and birdwatching is particularly rewarding as migratory birds arrive. While some outdoor activities might be limited due to rain, this season can be less crowded and offer a more tranquil experience. It's important to pack for variable weather.
The shoulder seasons can be a mix of weather. Early March and late October can still see some rain, but these months often feature fewer tourists. Expect mild temperatures and the opportunity to enjoy both wet and dry season activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and cultural visits. This is a great time for those looking for a balance between weather and crowd sizes.
Monkey Bay at Night
Hiking in Monkey Bay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A protected marine park with scenic hiking trails along the shores of Lake Malawi, offering beautiful views and opportunities to see diverse wildlife.
While best known for its safari experiences, the park has some excellent walking trails that allow for hiking while exploring the flora and fauna of the region.
A popular spot for hiking, Mount Nkhanga offers challenging trails with rewarding views of the surrounding landscape and Lake Malawi.
Located a bit further from Monkey Bay, Mulanje Mountain provides a range of hiking routes from easier walks to more challenging ascents, with stunning vistas.
An excellent location for hiking along the lake shore with various trails and the chance to experience local culture and scenery.
Aiports
How to reach Monkey Bay by plane.
Located in Lilongwe, approximately 300 kilometers from Monkey Bay, this is the primary international airport serving Malawi.
Situated in Blantyre, about 400 kilometers from Monkey Bay, this airport serves as a gateway to the southern region of Malawi.
A smaller airport located closer to Monkey Bay, primarily serving domestic flights but may have limited international connections.
Located around 70 kilometers from Monkey Bay, this airport is more regionally oriented but can connect to larger airports.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Chewa people are the largest ethnic group in the region, known for their agricultural practices and cultural traditions.
The Yao are prominent in trade and are known for their Islamic faith and unique customs.
The Ngoni people are known for their warrior history and pastoral lifestyle.
The Tumbuka people are mostly found in the northern part of Malawi and are involved in agriculture and traditional medicine.
The Lomwe are recognized for their strong cultural identity and agricultural skills.
There are several smaller minority groups in Monkey Bay, each with their unique traditions and lifestyles.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Monkey Bay, attracting many fans and participants of all ages. Local teams compete in various tournaments, and the sport is played in many communities.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Monkey Bay, especially among the youth. The town has several courts where local teams practice and compete against each other.
Netball is popular, particularly among women. Schools and community teams often participate in matches and leagues, making it a vital part of local sports culture.
Cricket has a following in Monkey Bay, with several informal games being played. Enthusiastic players often gather in open spaces to play.
Fishing is not only a sport but also a way of life for many residents of Monkey Bay, due to its proximity to Lake Malawi. Fishing competitions are occasionally held, attracting local and visiting anglers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Monkey Bay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Malawian cuisine often includes meat and fish, many restaurants in Monkey Bay offer vegetarian and vegan dishes made using fresh local produce and flavorful spices. Look for restaurants that specialize in seafood for diverse and vegetarian-friendly choices.
Tourists with gluten sensitivities can enjoy meals at several eateries in Monkey Bay that accommodate gluten-free dietary needs. Additionally, some restaurants are willing to modify dishes to accommodate gluten-free requirements upon request.